Figo predicts fruitful Messi & Neymar partnership

The Portuguese great has weighed in on the future Barcelona pairing and suggests that Brazil and Spain are favourites to win the Confederations Cup

Ex-Barcelona star Luis Figo has predicted that Lionel Messi and Neymar will have a "great" working relationship following the Brazilian's transfer to Camp Nou.

The forward joined the Blaugrana for €57 million this summer and will partner the likes of the Argentine and join a star-studded squad that includes Andres Iniesta, Xavi and Cesc Fabregas.

Figo, speaking in Venezuela ahead of partaking in a charity match on Saturday, has no doubt that Messi and Neymar should thrive together and hinted that, should they not, it will be down to off-the-field issues.

When asked apart the pair, he told reporters: "The great players always understand each other. If they don't get on, it won't be because of football."

The iconic former Portugal international also weighed in on who he thinks will reign supreme at the Confederations Cup this summer, with Spain and Brazil his tips to win.

"In theory, Spain and Brazil are favourites," he added. "Obviously in practise it can be different, so let's see who wins it."

Brazil will face Italy on Saturday to see who will be crowned Group A winners, with both sides having already secured qualification into the semi-finals.